Degenerative Disc (cont.)Medical Author:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACRDr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Medical Editor:
Catherine Burt Driver, MD
Catherine Burt Driver, MDCatherine Burt Driver, MD, is board certified in internal medicine and rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Driver is a member of the American College of Rheumatology. She currently is in active practice in the field of rheumatology in Mission Viejo, Calif., where she is a partner in Mission Internal Medical Group. In this Article
 What is the outlook (prognosis) of degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy, and sciatica?The outlook of degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy, and sciatica depends on the severity of the condition, its precise cause, and the interventions used to treat the patient. When patients respond to conservative treatments, the result can be complete healing. Surgical repairs can require rehabilitation physical therapy. Can degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy, and sciatica be prevented?Avoiding injury can prevent these conditions. When the disease already exists, aggravation of existing symptoms can be avoided by limiting stressing or overusing the involved spine. REFERENCE: Reviewed by Catherine Burt Driver, MD on 1/13/2012 Patient CommentsViewers share their comments
Degenerative Disc Disease & Sciatica - Effective Treatments
Question: What treatments have been effective for your degenerative disc disease or sciatica?
Degenerative Disc Disease & Sciatica - Symptoms
Question: What were the symptoms and signs of your degenerative disc disease and sciatica?
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